Sir John Gilmour

Mitchell Library, The Bailie

Born in Fife, Gilmour had a strong interest in agriculture. He saw active service and was decorated in both the Boer War and the First World War. In 1910 he was elected Conservative and Unionist MP for East Renfrewshire. When part of his constituency was transferred to Pollok in 1918, he stood for the Glasgow seat, which he represented until his death.

Gilmour was appointed Secretary for Scotland in 1924. In 1926 the office was raised to a secretaryship of State and he became the first person in modern times to hold the post of Secretary of State for Scotland, until 1929. He also held the posts of Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries from 1931 to 1932 and Home Secretary from 1932 to 1935.

Gilmour was a member of the Orange Order, and was the highest ranking member of any British Government to have been an Orangeman. Other posts held included High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Brigadier in the King’s Bodyguard, and Rector of Edinburgh University.

Reference: GC 052 BAI, no.2721

Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Libraries Information and Learning